United Arab Emirates residents are looking ahead to a substantial four-day weekend for Eid Al Fitr in March 2026, according to astronomical projections and official calendar calculations. The Islamic festival marking Ramadan’s conclusion will bring one of the longest public holidays of the year regardless of moon sighting outcomes.
Islamic calendar experts indicate Ramadan’s ninth month will likely complete its full 30-day cycle based on celestial calculations. The UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee will conduct official observations on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 (29th of Ramadan) to determine the holiday’s commencement.
Two scenarios emerge for the holiday structure:
If the crescent moon is sighted on March 18th, Eid Al Fitr would begin Thursday, March 19th, with public holidays extending through Saturday, March 21st. Combined with the regular Sunday weekend, this creates a four-day break.
If the moon isn’t sighted on March 18th, Ramadan would complete 30 days with Eid Al Fitr beginning Friday, March 20th. Under updated regulations, the 30th day of Ramadan also qualifies as a holiday, creating a four-day break from Thursday, March 19th through Sunday, March 22nd.
Khadijah Ahmad, Operations Manager at Dubai Astronomy Group, confirms astronomical projections suggest Ramadan will span 30 days, positioning Eid Al Fitr on Friday, March 20, 2026. These calculations align with prayer timings published by the UAE’s Islamic affairs authority, which similarly indicates a 30-day Ramadan period.
The consistency in holiday duration regardless of moon sighting reflects the UAE’s thoughtful approach to public holiday planning, ensuring residents can make firm arrangements for the important religious celebration.